Four-legged futures

Ireland is the home for the horse, but until quite recently virtually the only training in this area was for our four-legged friends as they won some of the world's most famous races and showjumping events.

Today, however, a whole variety of equine courses has sprung up open to schoolleavers intending to make a career involving the horse. They cover such areas as training, breeding, riding, veterinary and stable management.

Information about these courses had been scattered until five years ago when The Irish Field, the weekly trade newspaper devoted to the horse, published its first equine education feature. Since then, it has expanded considerably and on Saturday, February 28th, the sixth edition will appear in the newsagents.

The comprehensive 12-page guide for all school-leavers with or without a Leaving Cert will contain full information on the many courses available including the types of training offered and qualifications required. Last year, over 20 Irish centres were covered, but next month a British sector will be included plus an article examining the issues to consider for students intending to train abroad.

Each year the guide focuses on a particular centre specialising in equine courses. This year the innovative Enniskillen College of Agriculture in Co Fermanagh will come under the microscope.

Also included will be overall developments and changes in the sector over the past 12 months including an update on the new tourist related BHS qualification and the impact of the new British rules on fees.